Grand Valley State University’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI) brought energy, creativity, and community together for its Second Annual 77 Idea Quest Final Pitch Competition on March 26, 2026. Hosted in the Loosemore Forum, the event marked the culmination of months of ideation, mentorship, and entrepreneurial growth for student innovators across campus.
A Night of Innovation and Community
The 77 Idea Quest is a college-wide competition at Grand Valley State University designed to empower students from all majors to transform real-world problems into actionable business ideas. After participating in workshops and refining their concepts throughout the year, the top seven finalists earned the opportunity to present in a high-energy, Shark Tank–style pitch competition.
But the night offered more than just pitches.
Pop-Up Shop & Student Vendors
Before and between presentations, attendees explored a vibrant student vendor showcase, creating a pop-up shop atmosphere similar to Laker Outlet. Student entrepreneurs displayed and sold their products, giving guests the chance to shop local, support peers, and see innovation in action beyond the stage. This interactive element added a dynamic, marketplace feel to the event and highlighted the breadth of creativity within the GVSU community.
The Finalists Take the Stage
The main event featured seven standout finalists, each delivering a 3-minute pitch followed by a Q&A session with judges:
- Boulbaba Abdeljaouad + Mahdi Bedoui
- Mia Heimbaugh + Jamie Butler
- Mohamed Aziz Boufaied
- Allison Albery
- Kelvin Njagi
- Joshua Ross
- Ravi Patel
Each pitch showcased not only innovative ideas but also the confidence and professionalism students developed throughout the program.
Announcing the Winners
After careful deliberation, judges awarded over $10,000 in prizes to the top ventures:
- 🥇 1st Place: SafeSip Technologies – Ravi Patel
- 🥈 2nd Place: Travel Ally – Allison Albery
- 🥉 3rd Place: Ledger – Mohamed Aziz Boufaied
The audience also had a voice in the competition:
- People’s Choice Award: SafeSip Technologies – Ravi Patel
Additional Recognitions
The competition also celebrated outstanding student entrepreneurs through additional awards:
- College Champion Winners:
Erika Govea-Garcia
Gideon Osei Bonsu
Mary Jane Harper
Kendel Franz
Daniel Freeland
Babajide Koleoso
Amy Mendoza-Garcia - Laker Outlet Student Vendors:
Participating student vendors were also recognized and awarded for their contributions to the pop-up shop experience.
Powered by Community Support
This impactful event was made possible through the continued support of sponsors including Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), Meijer, and A.
Looking Ahead
The Second Annual 77 Idea Quest Final Pitch Competition was more than a contest—it was a celebration of student ambition, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial spirit at GVSU. From the bustling vendor marketplace to the high-stakes final pitches, the event highlighted what’s possible when innovation meets opportunity.
As CEI continues to grow this program, one thing is clear: the future of entrepreneurship at GVSU is bright—and just getting started.
NEU 